Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic and Zucchini Noodles in Lemon Herb Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender shrimp quickly sautéed with garlic and tossed with fresh zucchini noodles in a bright lemon and herb-infused olive oil sauce, perfect for a Whole30 seafood dinner. This whole30 (low carb) ready in about 20 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, extra virgin olive oil, garlic cloves, minced into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque, then transfer shrimp to a plate.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 4 medium spiralized zucchini noodles. Toss and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still firm.
  4. Step 4: Return the shrimp to the skillet with zucchini noodles, pour 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley. Toss everything together for 1 minute to combine and warm through.
  5. Step 5: Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic and Zucchini Noodles in Lemon Herb Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic and Zucchini Noodles in Lemon Herb Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic and Zucchini Noodles in Lemon Herb Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic and Zucchini Noodles in Lemon Herb Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Sautéed Shrimp with Garlic and Zucchini Noodles in Lemon Herb Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, low carb, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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